As strange as it would be to see Kevin Youkilis wearing pinstripes, a deal with the New York Yankees would make sense for both sides.

First, for Youkilis: The Yankees are offering a $12 million, one-year contract, according to reports. For a 33-year-old coming off the two worst seasons of his nine-year career, that could be hard to beat. It would mean just a $250,000 decrease after a season during which he hit .235, well off his career mark of .283.

Kevin Youkilis could soon be in Yankee pinstripes. (AP Photo)

Also: Youkilis would play third base until Alex Rodriguez returns from hip surgery. When (or if) A-Rod comes back, Youkilis still would get plenty of at-bats as a DH — if he’s producing, of course.

Now, for the Yankees: Securing a third baseman on a one-year commitment doesn’t affect their chances of reducing payroll to $189 million in 2014, a goal that looks to be driving the Yankees’ decision these days.

Also, Youkilis remains the type of grind-it-out hitter the Yankees value. Plus, he still has some power as seen in his 19 homers in 122 games last season. After all his years in the AL. East, the Yankees also know Youkilis can handle the scrutiny that comes with playing in New York. He has a career .300 average in games against the Yankees.

The Indians appear to be the Yankees’ main competition for Youkilis’ services. The budget-conscious Tribe might not be able to offer as much in salary as the Yankees but they could give Youkilis the security of a multi-year deal. Also, Youkilis was a favorite of the Tribe’s new manager, Terry Francona.

Youkilis was host for a charity event in Boston on Thursday, which figures to delay his decision.